Oppression and Resistance in the trilogy of The Hunger Games

Abstract

In this study, I examine oppression and resistance in Suzanne Collins' trilogy The Hunger Games (2008), Catching Fire (2009), and Mockingjay (2010). The different forms of psychological and physical abuse throughout the trilogy are alarming and result in the characters' feelings of entrapment and powerlessness. Unable to have a vote in their own lives, Collin's characters have relinquished all decision-making and their only form of resistance is directed towards survival. After many years of accepting the government's abuse, the main characters, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, serve as catalysts for change. For the first time in many years, Katniss and Peeta provide their nation with a sense of hope, which results in the citizens' urge to reclaim their freedom. Thus, Collins suggests that the power of hope is what ultimately supplies the districts with the strength that they need to unite and to resist their abusive government. I use Marilyn Frye's article, "Oppression"� as well as Hope Under Oppression by Katie Stockdale, among other sources, to analyze the several forms of oppression and the power of hope in the multiple layers of resistance throughout the trilogy.